The beige bucket passed out by the city of Portland for collecting food
scraps is benign enough, but not exactly a decor statement. The oblong pail is
intended as a way station between kitchen and curbside, a convenience for the
new food composting system that started this fall. Finding room for the
container under the sink instead of on the counter solves the eyesore problem,
but not the out-of-sight-out-of-mind problem. That solution comes from the many
models of compost pails made for style as well as function: sleek stainless
steel, colorful country crocks, urban-industrial galvanized metal and versatile
bamboo. Prices range from $20 to $40, but you can save money by repurposing an
ice bucket, cookie jar or canister. Or find room under the sink. Just don't
forget to take it out and use it.

MORE INFORMATION
Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, 503-823-7202, tiny.cc/rtz5a

TIPS FOR CURBSIDE
COMPOSTING

For the green cart -- Set roll cart on the
curb every week, even if it is not full. -- Place sheets of newspaper, a
paper bag or a pizza box in the bottom of cart to absorb moisture. -- Save
some fall leaves or yard debris to line the bottom of cart throughout winter.
-- Layer food and yard debris to absorb moisture and odors.